The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Title 17, Chapter 17-19, specifically addresses the qualifications and procedures for absentee voting. RIGL 17-19-6 outlines the circumstances under which a voter may cast an absentee ballot. This includes being absent from the city or town in which they are registered on election day, or being unable to vote in person due to illness or disability. RIGL 17-19-10 details the process for applying for an absentee ballot, requiring the applicant to provide specific information and attest to their eligibility. The law mandates that absentee ballots must be returned by mail or hand-delivered to the local board of canvassers by the close of the polls on election day. RIGL 17-19-13 specifies that absentee ballots are counted only after the polls close. Furthermore, RIGL 17-19-14 requires that absentee ballots received after the deadline are not counted. The scenario describes a voter who applied for an absentee ballot due to a scheduled out-of-state medical procedure, which falls under the permissible reasons for absentee voting. The ballot was correctly completed and mailed back to the local board of canvassers, arriving before the close of polls on election day. Therefore, this absentee ballot would be considered valid and should be counted according to Rhode Island election law. The core principle being tested is the adherence to statutory requirements for absentee voting, including eligibility, application, and timely return of the ballot.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-18-10 outlines the requirements for absentee voting. Specifically, it details the conditions under which a voter may cast an absentee ballot. The law defines “absentee voter” as any registered voter who expects to be unable to vote in person at their polling place on election day for specific reasons. These reasons are enumerated within the statute and include being out of town on election day, being unable to reach the polling place due to physical disability, or observing a religious holiday that prevents attendance at the polls. The law also specifies the process for applying for an absentee ballot, including the need for a signed application. Furthermore, it addresses the delivery of absentee ballots to the local board of canvassers and the procedures for counting these ballots. The question focuses on the legal definition and eligibility criteria for absentee voting in Rhode Island, as established by this statute.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-19-24.1 outlines the requirements for voter registration deadlines. Specifically, it mandates that for any election, a person must be registered to vote no later than twenty (20) days before the election. This deadline applies to all forms of registration, including mail-in applications and in-person registrations. The purpose of this deadline is to allow election officials sufficient time to process applications, verify eligibility, and prepare accurate voter lists for polling places and mail ballot distribution. Failure to meet this statutory deadline means an individual cannot be added to the voter rolls for that specific election. For instance, if an election is scheduled for November 5th, the last day to register to vote would be October 16th. This twenty-day period is a crucial element in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process in Rhode Island by ensuring that all eligible voters are properly recorded and accounted for in a timely manner.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-19-24 outlines the requirements for voter registration. Specifically, it addresses the creation and maintenance of voter lists by local boards of canvassers. The law mandates that these lists must be updated to reflect changes in voter status, including those who have moved, died, or become ineligible. While the law doesn’t prescribe a specific numerical calculation for determining the exact number of days for purging inactive voters from the rolls, it establishes a framework for maintaining accurate voter registration records. The process involves periodic review and removal of voters who are no longer eligible to vote in a particular precinct. The exact timing and methodology for this purging are often guided by federal law, such as the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which requires states to maintain accurate voter rolls and remove voters who are no longer eligible, but it also allows for state-specific procedures as long as they comply with federal mandates. The goal is to balance the need for accurate voter lists with the protection of citizens’ right to vote, ensuring that eligible voters are not disenfranchised due to administrative errors or overly aggressive purging practices. The Rhode Island Board of Elections also promulgates regulations that further detail these processes, often referencing a period of inactivity or failure to respond to official mailings as triggers for potential removal, subject to specific notification requirements.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-17-24.1 outlines the procedures for absentee voting by mail. This statute specifies that an absentee ballot application must be received by the local board of canvassers no later than 4:00 p.m. on the day preceding the election. For a Tuesday election, this means the application must be received by 4:00 p.m. on the Monday before the election. The question asks about the deadline for receiving an absentee ballot application for a general election held on Tuesday, November 5th. Therefore, the deadline for receiving the application is 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 4th. This ensures that election officials have adequate time to process the applications and mail out the ballots to eligible voters, adhering to the statutory timelines designed to facilitate participation while maintaining election integrity. The law aims to balance the convenience of absentee voting with the operational needs of election administration.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 17 concerning elections, outline the procedures for challenging voter registration. Rhode Island General Laws Section 17-10-10 details the process by which any registered voter may challenge the registration of another voter. The challenger must submit a written statement to the local board of canvassers, clearly stating the grounds for the challenge. These grounds are typically related to a belief that the challenged voter is not eligible to vote in that specific precinct or municipality, perhaps due to residency issues, conviction of disqualifying crimes, or other statutory disqualifications. The law requires that the challenge be specific and supported by a factual basis. Following the submission of a challenge, the board of canvassers is mandated to investigate the claim. This investigation often involves contacting the challenged voter and requesting proof of eligibility, such as a valid Rhode Island driver’s license or other residency documentation. If the challenged voter fails to provide satisfactory evidence of their eligibility, or if the board determines the challenge is valid based on their investigation, the voter’s name may be removed from the voter rolls. However, due process is a critical component; the challenged voter must be given notice of the challenge and an opportunity to be heard before any removal can occur. This ensures that voters are not disenfranchised without a fair chance to defend their registration status. The law emphasizes that challenges must be made in good faith and not for the purpose of harassing or intimidating voters. The board of canvassers has the discretion to dismiss frivolous or unsubstantiated challenges.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-18-10 outlines the requirements for absentee ballots. Specifically, it states that an absentee ballot application must be received by the local board of canvassers no later than 4:00 PM on the day preceding the election. If the election is held on a Tuesday, the deadline would be the preceding Monday. For an election held on November 5th, the deadline for receiving an absentee ballot application would be 4:00 PM on November 4th. This ensures sufficient time for processing and mailing the ballots to the applicant before election day. The law also specifies that the ballot must be returned by mail or deposited in a designated drop box by the close of the polls on election day. The purpose of these deadlines is to maintain the integrity of the election process by preventing last-minute ballot requests that could compromise security and to allow for orderly tabulation of votes. Understanding these precise timelines is crucial for both voters applying for absentee ballots and election officials managing the process in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 44-19, specifically sections concerning the taxation of sales and the exemptions thereof, is relevant here. While sales tax is generally applied to retail sales of tangible personal property, there are specific exemptions. For instance, certain sales for resale are exempt from sales tax. In this scenario, the voter registration drive is procuring materials for distribution to potential voters, not for personal consumption by the organization or its members. The intent is to facilitate the registration process, and the materials, such as informational flyers and pens, are essentially tools for this civic purpose. The critical factor is whether the acquisition of these items constitutes a taxable retail sale under Rhode Island law for the organization itself. Given that these materials are not being purchased for the organization’s internal use or for resale in a commercial transaction, but rather as part of a non-profit, civic-focused voter registration effort, they may qualify for an exemption. The Rhode Island Division of Taxation provides guidance on sales tax exemptions for non-profit organizations engaged in public service activities. When a non-profit organization purchases items for the direct furtherance of its exempt purpose, and these items are not consumed by the organization but rather distributed or used in the public sphere to achieve its mission, a sales tax exemption is often applicable. Therefore, the organization would not be obligated to pay sales tax on these purchases.

In Rhode Island, the process for challenging the validity of absentee ballots hinges on specific statutory grounds and procedural timelines. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-19-24 outlines the circumstances under which an absentee ballot can be challenged. A challenge must be based on specific grounds, such as the voter not being legally entitled to cast an absentee ballot, or the ballot not being properly executed according to statutory requirements. The law also mandates that challenges must be presented to the local board of canvassers before the final canvass of votes is completed. The timing is crucial; a challenge raised after the canvass has concluded is generally considered untimely. Furthermore, the burden of proof rests with the challenger to demonstrate that the ballot is invalid. The specific grounds for challenge are limited to those enumerated in the law to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the election process. The Rhode Island Supreme Court has consistently upheld the importance of adhering to these procedural safeguards to prevent frivolous challenges and maintain public confidence in election outcomes. Therefore, a challenge based solely on a voter’s perceived political affiliation or a subjective interpretation of their intent would not be a legally recognized ground for invalidating an absentee ballot under Rhode Island law.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-10-6 outlines the requirements for a candidate to be placed on the ballot for state and local offices. Specifically, it details the number of signatures required for a primary election. For a candidate seeking nomination for a state representative position, the law mandates that a minimum of 25 valid signatures from registered voters within the candidate’s specific representative district must be submitted. These signatures must be collected on nomination papers, and the candidate must also file a declaration of candidacy. The nomination papers must be submitted to the local board of canvassers by a specified deadline, typically 50 days prior to the primary election. The local board then verifies the signatures to ensure they belong to registered voters within the correct district and that the individuals have not signed nomination papers for more than one candidate for the same office. Failure to meet the signature threshold or adhere to submission deadlines can result in the candidate’s exclusion from the primary ballot. The number of signatures is a critical threshold for ensuring a candidate has demonstrated a modicum of support within their electoral jurisdiction before appearing on the official ballot.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-10-7 outlines the requirements for a candidate to be placed on the ballot for a primary election. Specifically, it details the number of signatures required from registered voters of the candidate’s party. For a statewide office, such as Governor or U.S. Senator, the law mandates that a candidate must obtain signatures from a minimum of 1% of the total number of votes cast for their party’s candidate for that office in the preceding general election. However, the law also sets a minimum threshold of 500 signatures, regardless of the calculated percentage. If the calculated 1% of votes is less than 500, the candidate must still gather 500 signatures. Conversely, if 1% of votes exceeds 500, the higher number is required. In this scenario, the preceding general election saw 85,000 votes cast for the Democratic candidate for Governor. One percent of this total is calculated as \(0.01 \times 85,000 = 850\). Since 850 is greater than the statutory minimum of 500, the candidate must collect 850 valid signatures from registered Democratic voters in Rhode Island to qualify for the primary ballot. This ensures a baseline level of support while also scaling the requirement with the party’s demonstrated electoral strength.

The Rhode Island General Laws, specifically Title 17 concerning elections, outline the procedures for challenging absentee ballots. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-19-21 addresses the challenges to absentee ballots. A voter may challenge an absentee ballot if they believe the voter casting the ballot is not legally entitled to vote in the precinct where the ballot is cast. The challenge must be made in person at the polling place on election day before the polls close. The challenger must state the specific grounds for the challenge, which typically relate to residency, age, or citizenship. The local board of canvassers, often represented by the moderator or a designated election official at the polling place, then reviews the challenge. If the challenge is deemed valid, the absentee ballot is set aside and not counted until the challenge is resolved by the board of elections. The process requires the challenger to be present and to articulate the basis of their objection, ensuring that the challenge is not frivolous. The law aims to balance the convenience of absentee voting with the integrity of the election process by providing a mechanism for timely challenges.

In Rhode Island, the process for challenging the eligibility of a candidate for public office is governed by specific statutory provisions. Generally, any registered voter in Rhode Island can initiate a challenge. The primary mechanism for such a challenge involves filing a formal complaint with the appropriate election authority. For state-level offices, this typically means the Secretary of State. For local offices, it would be the local board of canvassers or election officials. The challenge must be based on specific grounds enumerated in Rhode Island General Laws, such as lack of residency, age, citizenship, or failure to meet statutory qualifications for the office sought. The timing of these challenges is crucial. Rhode Island law often sets strict deadlines for filing, typically occurring after the candidate’s nomination papers have been certified but before the election itself. For instance, a challenge to a candidate’s nomination papers must be filed within a specified number of days following the certification of those papers. The law also outlines the procedural requirements for the challenge, including the content of the complaint and the notification process for the candidate being challenged. The challenged candidate is usually afforded an opportunity to respond and present evidence in their defense. The ultimate determination of the challenge rests with the election authority or a designated judicial body, depending on the nature and stage of the challenge. If a challenge is upheld, the candidate’s name may be removed from the ballot. It is important to note that frivolous challenges can sometimes lead to penalties for the challenger. The specific statute governing these challenges is Rhode Island General Laws § 17-15-10, which details the grounds and procedures for challenging the eligibility of candidates.

In Rhode Island, the process for challenging the validity of an election result is governed by specific statutes and case law. A candidate or concerned party must initiate this challenge within a defined timeframe. The primary mechanism for such a challenge is typically through a petition filed with the appropriate judicial body, often the Superior Court. Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) Title 17 outlines election procedures, and specific sections address election contests. For instance, RIGL § 17-19-34 details the grounds for contesting an election, which generally include allegations of fraud, malconduct, or errors in the casting or counting of ballots that materially affected the outcome. The statute also specifies the procedural requirements for filing such a contest, including the necessity of serving notice upon the opposing candidate and the canvassing authority. The burden of proof rests with the contestant to demonstrate that irregularities occurred and that these irregularities were substantial enough to alter the election results. The court will then review the evidence presented to determine if the election outcome should be overturned or if a recount is warranted. The specific timeframe for filing is critical, and failure to adhere to it can result in the dismissal of the challenge.

The scenario presented involves a candidate for municipal office in Rhode Island who is also a member of the state’s General Assembly. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-1-3.1 addresses conflicts of interest and dual office holding. Specifically, it prohibits a member of the General Assembly from holding any municipal office, whether elective or appointive, except for certain specified exceptions not applicable here. The prohibition is absolute for positions that would create a conflict or where the General Assembly member’s duties could impinge upon the autonomy of the municipal government. Therefore, a state legislator cannot simultaneously hold a position on a town council in Rhode Island due to this statutory prohibition. The core principle is to prevent the concentration of power and potential for undue influence between state and local levels of government. The law aims to ensure that each level of government operates independently and free from the direct control or influence of the other, thereby safeguarding the integrity of both state and municipal electoral processes and governance.

The scenario describes a situation where a candidate for a municipal office in Rhode Island, specifically seeking a position on the Town Council of Westerly, submits their nomination papers. The core issue revolves around the validity of these papers concerning the required number of signatures from registered voters. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-16-8 outlines the requirements for nomination papers for municipal offices. For a town council position in a town with a population of 10,000 or more, the law specifies a minimum number of signatures. Westerly, as per census data, exceeds this population threshold. The statute mandates that for such offices, nomination papers must bear the signatures of at least 5% of the registered voters in the town, or 250 signatures, whichever is less. Assuming Westerly has a registered voter population of 15,000, 5% of this would be \(0.05 \times 15,000 = 750\). Since 750 is greater than 250, the minimum requirement is 750 signatures. If the submitted papers contained only 700 valid signatures, they would fall short of the statutory requirement. Therefore, the nomination papers would be deemed insufficient. This understanding of signature thresholds and the application of the “whichever is less” clause is crucial for candidate qualification in Rhode Island municipal elections. The law aims to ensure a demonstrated level of support from the electorate for a candidate to appear on the ballot, balancing accessibility for candidates with the integrity of the election process.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-2-7 outlines the process for challenging the eligibility of a voter whose name appears on the voter list. This statute empowers any registered voter to challenge another voter’s right to vote on election day. The challenge must be made to the specific election officials at the polling place. Upon receiving a challenge, the moderator or other designated election official must administer an oath to the challenged voter. The challenged voter is then required to answer truthfully questions regarding their residency and eligibility. If the challenged voter’s answers satisfy the election officials that they are a qualified voter, they are permitted to vote. However, if the challenged voter refuses to take the oath or if their answers do not satisfy the officials of their eligibility, they are not permitted to cast a ballot. This process ensures that only qualified individuals vote, while providing a mechanism for voters to uphold the integrity of the electoral process in Rhode Island. The law also specifies that a challenge must be based on specific grounds of ineligibility, not arbitrary objections.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-20-6 outlines the requirements for challenging an absentee ballot. A challenge to an absentee ballot must be made in writing to the local board of canvassers or the state board of elections. The challenge must specify the grounds for the challenge. For a challenge based on the voter’s residency, the challenger must present evidence that the voter is not a resident of the precinct in which they are registered to vote. The law further specifies that such a challenge must be brought before the absentee ballot is counted. If a challenge is sustained, the ballot is not counted. The process emphasizes timely notification and the presentation of specific grounds and evidence. In this scenario, the challenger failed to present the challenge in writing and did not provide any evidence of non-residency. Therefore, the challenge would be dismissed.

In Rhode Island, the process for challenging the validity of absentee ballots hinges on specific statutory provisions and judicial interpretations. Generally, challenges must be raised in a timely manner, often before or during the canvassing of ballots. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-19-24 outlines procedures for challenging absentee ballots. A key element is the requirement for a voter to present a valid reason for not voting in person, and the absentee ballot envelope must be properly executed. Challenges are typically heard by local boards of canvassers or, in more complex cases, by the Rhode Island Superior Court. The grounds for challenge are usually limited to issues such as lack of eligibility, improper execution of the ballot envelope, or if the voter voted in person. The burden of proof typically rests with the challenger. The law emphasizes the secrecy of the ballot, so challenges cannot delve into the voter’s choice. The resolution of such challenges is critical for ensuring the integrity of election results. For instance, if a challenger asserts that an absentee ballot was cast by someone not residing in the precinct, they would need to present evidence to that effect, which the board of canvassers would then evaluate against the statutory requirements for absentee voting and residency. The legal framework aims to balance the right to vote with the need to prevent fraud and maintain accurate election outcomes.

Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) §17-19-36 outlines the procedures for absentee voting. Specifically, it details the requirements for requesting an absentee ballot, including the need for a valid reason. RIGL §17-19-36(a) states that any qualified elector who expects to be absent from the state or who, by reason of age, illness, or disability, is unable to attend their polling place in person, may vote by absentee ballot. The law further specifies that the application for an absentee ballot must be made to the local board of canvassers and that the ballot must be returned to the local board of canvassers by the closing of the polls on election day. The question focuses on the statutory basis for absentee voting and the specific reasons permitted by Rhode Island law, as codified in Title 17, Chapter 19 of the General Laws. The correct answer reflects the legal framework that allows for absentee voting under specific circumstances, encompassing absence from the state or physical inability to attend the polling place due to age, illness, or disability. The other options present scenarios or justifications that are not explicitly enumerated as primary grounds for absentee voting under RIGL §17-19-36, or they misrepresent the application process or deadlines.

In Rhode Island, the process for challenging a candidate’s eligibility based on residency for elected office is governed by specific statutes. The core principle is that a candidate must be a bona fide resident of the political subdivision for which they are seeking election for a specified period prior to the election. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-10-3 outlines residency requirements, generally requiring a candidate to have resided in the state for at least one year and in the town or city for at least thirty days preceding the election. However, challenges to residency are typically initiated through formal proceedings, often involving a complaint filed with the appropriate election authority, such as the local board of canvassers or the Rhode Island Board of Elections. These challenges are not automatically triggered by a mere assertion; rather, they require evidence to substantiate the claim of non-residency. The burden of proof typically rests with the challenger. The legal framework does not permit an arbitrary removal from the ballot without due process. Instead, it mandates a hearing where both the challenger and the candidate can present their case, including evidence of domicile, voter registration, property ownership, and other relevant factors that establish or refute residency. The outcome of such a challenge is determined by the evidence presented and its alignment with the statutory definition of residency as interpreted by the relevant authority. The specific timeframe for initiating such a challenge is also crucial, often tied to pre-election deadlines to ensure ballot integrity and timely resolution. Therefore, a candidate’s eligibility due to residency is subject to a formal evidentiary process.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-17-10 governs the process for filling vacancies in elected town or city offices. Specifically, it outlines that if a vacancy occurs in a town or city office, and the office is not filled by resignation, removal, or other cause, the town council or city council, as the case may be, shall, within sixty days after the vacancy occurs, cause a special election to be held to fill the vacancy. This election is conducted in the same manner as a regular election. The question presents a scenario where a town council member resigns in Rhode Island. The key detail is that the town council itself must *cause* the special election to be held within a specific timeframe. Therefore, the town council is responsible for initiating the process to fill the vacancy through a special election.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-19-24.1 outlines the requirements for voter registration deadlines. For general elections, the last day to register to vote is twenty (20) days prior to the election. For primary elections, the deadline is also twenty (20) days prior to the primary. The question asks for the deadline to register for a general election held on November 5th. Therefore, counting back twenty days from November 5th, the deadline falls on October 16th. This specific timeframe is crucial for ensuring all eligible citizens have adequate opportunity to register before participating in the electoral process, and it applies uniformly across all municipalities in Rhode Island. The law aims to balance accessibility with the administrative needs of conducting elections efficiently and securely. Understanding these statutory deadlines is fundamental for both voters and election officials to ensure compliance and the integrity of the election.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-18-10 outlines the process for challenging absentee ballots. Specifically, it states that a challenge to an absentee ballot must be made by a voter who is registered to vote in the same precinct as the absentee voter. The challenge must be filed with the local board of canvassers before the absentee ballots are opened and counted. The challenger must provide specific reasons for the challenge, which typically relate to the eligibility of the voter or the proper execution of the ballot. The local board then reviews the challenge. If the board finds sufficient grounds, the ballot is set aside and not counted unless a court orders otherwise. This law aims to ensure the integrity of the absentee voting process by providing a mechanism for legitimate challenges while preventing frivolous objections that could unduly delay or disrupt the election. The requirement for the challenger to be from the same precinct emphasizes that challenges are typically based on local knowledge of voter eligibility or procedural irregularities within that specific voting district.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-17-20 outlines the requirements for voter registration deadlines. Specifically, it states that a person must be registered to vote at least thirty days prior to any election. For a general election held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, if that date falls on November 5th, then the registration deadline would be October 6th. This is because October 6th is exactly thirty days before November 5th. The law aims to provide election officials with adequate time to process registrations and prepare accurate voter lists for each polling place, ensuring the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. This timeframe allows for the verification of eligibility and the compilation of necessary documentation for all qualified voters wishing to participate in the upcoming election.

The scenario describes a situation involving a potential violation of Rhode Island’s campaign finance disclosure laws. Specifically, it touches upon the reporting requirements for independent expenditures made to influence the outcome of an election. Rhode Island General Laws § 17-25-11 mandates that any person or group making an independent expenditure of \( \$1,000 \) or more in connection with an election must report such expenditure to the Rhode Island Board of Elections. The reporting threshold is key here. If the total of the independent expenditures made by the “Citizens for a Better Tomorrow” committee during the election cycle, as defined by the law, reaches or exceeds \( \$1,000 \), then a report must be filed. The question hinges on whether the committee’s actions constitute an independent expenditure and if the aggregate amount triggers the reporting obligation. Since the committee is not coordinating with any candidate’s campaign and is solely focused on advocating for or against a specific ballot question, their activities qualify as independent expenditures. The total amount spent, \( \$1,250 \), clearly surpasses the \( \$1,000 \) reporting threshold. Therefore, the committee is legally obligated to file a report detailing these expenditures with the Rhode Island Board of Elections. Failure to do so would constitute a violation of Rhode Island election law. The specific form and timing of this report are governed by the Board of Elections’ regulations, but the fundamental requirement to report is established by the statute.

Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-13, specifically § 42-13-4, outlines the powers and duties of the Rhode Island Board of Elections. This board is vested with broad authority to administer and enforce all election laws of the state. Its responsibilities include, but are not limited to, preparing and distributing election materials, certifying candidates and questions for ballots, conducting investigations into election irregularities, and promulgating rules and regulations to ensure the integrity and fairness of the electoral process. The board’s mandate extends to the registration of voters, the conduct of primaries and elections, and the canvassing of election results. In cases of disputes or alleged violations of election law, the Board of Elections has the power to hold hearings, issue subpoenas, and impose penalties. The specific scenario presented involves a potential violation of campaign finance disclosure requirements, a matter falling squarely within the Board’s purview for investigation and enforcement. Therefore, the Board of Elections is the appropriate body to address such a complaint.

Rhode Island General Laws §17-19-24.2 governs the process for requesting absentee ballots by mail. This statute outlines the specific criteria and procedures that must be followed by an elector to obtain an absentee ballot without appearing in person at a polling place. The law specifies the information that must be included on the absentee ballot application, such as the elector’s name, address, and the reason for requesting the absentee ballot. It also details the timeframe within which applications must be received by the local board of canvassers or the Secretary of State to be processed for mailing. Furthermore, the statute addresses the method by which the absentee ballot is to be mailed to the elector and the requirements for returning the completed ballot. Understanding these procedural mandates is crucial for ensuring that absentee voting is conducted in accordance with state law, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process. The question tests the understanding of the statutory framework governing absentee ballot requests via mail in Rhode Island, focusing on the legal requirements for the application and subsequent mailing.

The Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) § 17-17-10 outlines the process for a candidate to withdraw their name from a primary ballot. This statute specifies that a candidate seeking to withdraw must file a written declaration of withdrawal with the state board of elections no later than 5:00 p.m. on the 40th day preceding the primary election. This deadline is crucial for ballot preparation and certification. Failure to meet this deadline means the candidate’s name will remain on the ballot. For instance, if a primary election is scheduled for September 10th, the withdrawal deadline would be August 1st at 5:00 p.m. (counting back 40 days, including the day of the election and excluding the filing day). The law requires the withdrawal to be in writing and filed with the official body responsible for election administration. This ensures a clear and verifiable record of the candidate’s intent. The purpose of this strict deadline is to allow sufficient time for election officials to finalize ballot printing and distribution, preventing confusion and potential disenfranchisement of voters who might otherwise cast a vote for a candidate who is no longer actively participating. The RIGL § 17-17-10 is the controlling statute for this specific action.

Rhode Island General Laws § 17-17-10 outlines the requirements for voter registration. Specifically, it states that a person must be a citizen of the United States, a resident of Rhode Island, and must have resided in the town or city in which they intend to vote for at least thirty days prior to the election. Additionally, voters must be at least eighteen years of age on or before the day of the election. The law also specifies that individuals convicted of certain crimes may be disenfranchised. The question tests the understanding of the residency requirement for voter registration in Rhode Island. The scenario describes a situation where an individual has recently moved to a new town within Rhode Island. To be eligible to vote in that town, they must have resided there for the full thirty days preceding the election. Therefore, if an election is held on November 5th, and the individual moved on October 10th, they would not meet the thirty-day residency requirement by November 5th, as they would only have resided there for twenty-six days. The critical period for determining eligibility is the thirty days immediately before the election date.